Syrian Rebel Leader Thanks Israel for Role in Assad’s Downfall, Calls for Peaceful Relations
Fahd al-Masri, leader of the Syrian National Salvation Front and spokesperson for the Free Syrian Army, expressed gratitude to Israel for its role in ousting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Speaking to the Israeli newspaper Maariv, al-Masri stated, “We do not want a war with Israel,” and highlighted Israel’s contributions in targeting Hezbollah and Iranian forces, which he credited as pivotal in Syria’s liberation.
Al-Masri: "This is an Israeli Victory"
In an interview with i24NEWS, al-Masri thanked Israel, calling it a victory for both nations. “Without the blows you inflicted on Hezbollah and Iran, we could not free Syria. Thank you, Israel. This is an Israeli victory, our brothers and neighbors,” he remarked.
Optimism for Future Syria-Israel Relations
Abdul Jalil al-Saeed, described as the "former deputy Mufti of Syria," echoed optimism about potential ties between Syria and Israel. Speaking to i24NEWS, al-Saeed expressed hope for expanded Israeli media coverage in Syria, even envisioning Israeli correspondents reporting from Damascus.
He also noted regional dynamics, claiming that “leaders of the so-called Axis of Resistance believed October 7 would be their Noah’s Ark, only to realize it was their Titanic.” Al-Saeed emphasized the Arab world’s shifting view of Israel as a decisive force capable of reshaping regional events.
When asked about the possibility of peace between Syria and Israel, al-Saeed expressed cautious optimism, suggesting Israeli media could serve as a "bridge for genuine peace between nations."
Israeli Military Operations in Syria
Amid political shifts, the Israeli military has intensified its operations in Syria. On Friday, Israeli tanks reportedly entered the Quneitra countryside, briefly occupying a former military position in Khan Arnabah before retreating. Simultaneously, warnings were issued to residents of western Daraa, instructing them to stay indoors.
Also Read: Khamenei: US and Israel Orchestrated Syrian Crisis, Resistance Strengthens Across Region
Israeli Security Minister Israel Katz emphasized the importance of maintaining military readiness in the Golan Heights throughout the winter. Katz’s spokesman stated, “Due to the situation in Syria, it is of critical security importance to maintain our presence at the summit of Mount Hermon.”
UN Condemnation of Buffer Zone Occupation
The Israeli military’s recent occupation of the UN-patrolled buffer zone in the Golan Heights has drawn international criticism, including from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The UN called the occupation a violation of the 1974 disengagement agreement between Syria and Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office defended the move as temporary, stating it was necessary until a force committed to the agreement could be established to ensure border security.